The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Sunday issued a strong warning of heavy to extremely heavy rainfall across several districts of Assam, urging residents to remain alert and take necessary precautions. The alert, marked at the orange level, primarily covers the western and lower districts of the state, including Chirang, Kokrajhar, Dhubri, Baksa, Barpeta, Bongaigaon, and Tamulpur.
According to the IMD, a cyclonic circulation over northeast Bihar and its surrounding areas is expected to draw substantial moisture from the Bay of Bengal. This system, extending up to 4.5 km above mean sea level, is likely to cause widespread rain and thunderstorms in the coming days. The agency has forecasted very heavy rainfall of 7–11 cm in 24 hours, and in some isolated locations, extremely heavy rain of 12–20 cm is expected on Sunday. Gusty winds reaching speeds of 40–50 kmph, thunderstorms, and lightning are also predicted in these areas.
The seven-day outlook suggests that Assam will continue to experience widespread rain and thundershowers until at least October 10, with western and lower Assam seeing the most intense activity. Central Assam districts such as Barpeta, Bajali, and Kamrup, as well as northeastern districts including Dibrugarh, Tinsukia, Lakhimpur, and Dhemaji, are also likely to witness heavy rain accompanied by lightning strikes. 
The IMD has cautioned that the rainfall may cause waterlogging and localised flooding in low-lying areas, landslides or mud-slips in vulnerable hilly regions, and disruptions in ferry and boat services across rivers due to gusty winds and poor visibility. Prolonged rain may also affect visibility on roads, damage crops in the maturation stage, and cause temporary interruptions in power and communication lines. The department also warned of the risk of lightning strikes to both people and animals in open areas.
Authorities have urged residents to stay updated with weather reports and follow local advisories. People are advised to avoid vulnerable buildings and landslide-prone areas, ensure proper drainage in farmlands to protect crops, and limit travel through waterlogged or flood-prone areas. The IMD also recommended using the “Mausam” app for real-time weather updates and the “Damini” app for lightning alerts.
